Community Support Amid Federal Shutdown
As the federal government shutdown threatens to cut off SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits starting November 1, several Oregon businesses have come forward to help those affected. Many local cafes, restaurants, and markets are offering free meals and pantry items to individuals and families who depend on these benefits for food security.
KATU has compiled a growing list of participating businesses across the Portland metro area and beyond.
Legacy Coffee – Gresham
Legacy Coffee Company PDX is launching a community meal program beginning November 1. The shop will provide free sack lunches to individuals losing SNAP benefits. Each lunch includes a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, chips or a vegetable pouch, and a juice box.
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Additionally, the café is turning its back bar into a free pantry stocked with non-perishable goods for anyone in need. Donations of shelf-stable items are welcome.
Location: 112 N. Main Ave., Gresham
Hours: Daily, 6:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Heretic Coffee – Reed Neighborhood, Southeast Portland
Already gaining national attention for its generosity, Heretic Coffee continues to provide free breakfasts to those in need. The café has raised over $72,000 in community donations since its campaign went viral.
Location: 5120 S.E. 28th Ave., Portland
Hours: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–2 p.m., Saturday–Sunday 9:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
AG Burrito – Multiple Locations
In collaboration with Oregon State Representative Ricki Ruiz’s office, AG Burrito will serve free breakfast burritos beginning November 1. No questions asked—customers just need to say, “SNAP Burrito.” Options include rice and beans.
Participating locations:
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Gresham Burrito Shop
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Troutdale Burrito Shop
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Wood Village Burrito Shop
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Lake Oswego Burrito Shop
Oregon City Farmers Market – Oregon City
The year-round Oregon City Farmers Market will offer $20 in tokens for SNAP customers to spend on EBT-approved foods, even for those with a zero balance. The market will also honor the Double Up Food Bucks program to stretch budgets further.
Location: Clackamas Community College Green Lot 1, corner of S. Beavercreek Rd. and Clairmont Dr., Oregon City
Hours: Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Closed Thanksgiving weekend)
Nan’s Taqueria – Happy Valley
Located in the Sunnyside Food Hall, Nan’s Taqueria is offering free meals to anyone losing SNAP benefits starting November 1.
Location: 15640 S.E. Happy Valley Town Center Dr., Happy Valley
Hours: Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–12 a.m.
Hog Wild BBQ – Happy Valley
Hog Wild BBQ is inviting SNAP users to reach out via their website (hogwildportland.com) for assistance. Due to high demand, the restaurant asks those in need to contact them directly for details.
Location: 9226 S.E. 82nd Ave., Happy Valley
Phone: (503) 775-6200
El Sombrero Tapatio – Parkrose Neighborhood
This family-owned restaurant in Northeast Portland is providing a “SNAP Meal” with a choice of chicken or beef. Customers simply need to ask for it—no proof required.
Location: 10820 N.E. Sandy Blvd., Portland
Hours: Monday–Thursday 11 a.m.–7:30 p.m., Friday–Sunday 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Grassa – Multiple Locations
The popular Portland-based pasta restaurant Grassa is ensuring that no child goes hungry during the SNAP interruption. Families can show their SNAP card, and any child in the group can receive a free kids’ pasta meal—no purchase necessary.
Locations: Six across the Portland metro area, including Vancouver, WA
Hours: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
GeekEasy Anime Café – Old Town/Chinatown
With support from its sister shop, Stumptown Otaku, the anime-themed GeekEasy Café is offering free meals featuring a choice of Chicken Bento, Veggie Croquette Bento, or Spam and Egg Omelet Bento, each served with an iced coffee or tea.
Location: 310 N.W. Davis St., Portland
Hours: Monday–Friday 11 a.m.–6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Laughing Planet Café – Oregon, Washington & Nevada
Across its locations in three states, Laughing Planet Café is offering free meals for adults and kids. Customers can simply ask for “ADULT SNAP” or “KIDS SNAP MEAL.” No proof of benefits is required.
Locations: Throughout Oregon, Washington, and Nevada
Donut Land – Tualatin
Inspired by Heretic Coffee’s efforts, Donut Land is providing free breakfasts daily until SNAP benefits are restored. Just ask for the “SNAP Breakfast.”
Location: Tualatin, OR
A Growing Network of Support
As the government shutdown continues, more local businesses are joining efforts to combat food insecurity. Many owners emphasize that no one should feel embarrassed to ask for help during this difficult period.
KATU will continue updating this list as additional restaurants, cafés, and markets announce their participation in supporting Oregon families facing the loss of SNAP benefits.
